As the country remembers the tragedy that struck our nation 21 years ago on September 11 this weekend, the Central Florida community is coming together with different ways to honor those who lost their lives.

One of those events was an annual blood drive at the Daytona International Speedway. For people like Rita Scheirer, the drive is way bigger than just having blood drawn from her arm.

“I think I’m very fortunate,” she said while sitting in a chair with needles attached to her body and pumping blood.

These are moments she considers an opportunity to save lives and give back. Over the years, Scheirer has donated blood over 100 times. She tries to do it as often as possible for a reason near to her heart.

“My first 100 donations were for my brother that passed away from oropharyngeal cancer. My husband just passed away in January, so now I have to another 100 for him,” she explained.

Scheirer was one of the hundreds who signed up to give blood on Saturday.

Oneblood hosts the annual event at the speedway to honor victims of 9/11.

Within two to four days, the donations go to hospitals to help those needing blood transfusions.

“And that’s the thing to remember,” said Oneblood Director of Media and Public Relations Pat Michaels. “Every single day, someone needs a blood transfusion, and it’s these people who are doing this today that make a difference within a few days for patients in the hospital.”

Scheirer says Saturday’s blood drive is the largest she’s ever been to and appreciates the efforts to bring many out for a good cause.

On top of being a long-time donor, Scheirer comes from a military family.

She, her late husband, and their three children have served or are still in the Air Force. So when she comes to give blood, this is another chance to serve differently.

“And this is giving honor to those who can’t be here, and it’s something special for us,” she explained.